The best way to prepare your family for a winter driving emergency is to stock your car with an emergency kit. A few necessary supplies can help your family get out of a bad situation or wait comfortably until help arrives. Take a look at these must-have wintertime car emergency supplies for your family.

A battery-operated or rechargeable portable air compressor is a quick way to inflate a tire in a pinch when you're away from home. Some units resemble a cordless drill or have an optional electrical plug for when you are at home. Look for a unit that can also perform other necessities like jump-start a dead battery or charge a phone via a USB port. These features increase its usefulness and negate the need to carry jumper cables.

Chains that increase your traction in snow and ice are a must when snowfall accumulates and your car gets stuck. If you don't have tire chains, other methods can help your car out of a slick spot. Pour a bag of cat litter or sand beneath your tires to improve traction.

Include a few road flares as part of your kit for when you need to bring attention to a stuck or disabled car. Their bright light is visible against snow and ice in both daytime and nighttime conditions. You can place flares nearby to show distress and to attract help.

Dire situations require a flashlight to improve visibility as you perform necessary emergency tasks like change a tire or add chains. A flashlight can signal for help or assist you if walking for help in the dark becomes a necessity. Any children with you often find its steady light a source of comfort and even entertainment during an anxious wait for help.

Extra batteries provide an essential backup for those already in your flashlight that may weaken over time.

You may become stranded in very cold weather. If you cannot rely on the car's heater for warmth, you'll be glad you have warm clothing or blankets for your family. Include gloves, hats, and extra socks to build protective warm layers for better insulation.

Food will sustain your family if you are stranded on the road in your car. Pick temperature stable foods with very little moisture content so they store well for long periods. Make sure picky family members enjoy the food you store. Food with better nutrient and caloric content include:

• Nuts, seeds, trail mix, and granola
• Energy bars
• Dried fruit
• Crackers and pretzels
• Beef jerky

Remember to check expiration dates, and rotate your food storage regularly for use throughout the year for times you're stuck in a traffic jam, during errands, after school, and after exercise.

Each family has individual needs that need to be met even during emergencies. Include other essential supplies for your family like diapers, formula, medication, and pet food. Children need comfort and familiarity during a crisis, so include items to help them cope and occupy their minds like toys, a stuffed animal, or books.

Good preparation will help your family during a roadside emergency until assistance arrives. Be sure to include in your kit contact information for Hix Wrecker Service, Inc. , for help when your car is disabled in winter weather.